﻿Module 4: Curriculum and Learning Environments﻿

A Child Centered Environment

﻿Page 7

​A child-centered environment consists of several elements:

Staff working closely with children, observing them carefully, and following their lead when possible

Stimulating, challenging activities available throughout the day

Program scheduling, physical layout, and procedures that are best for the children in that space

Children choosing activities

These elements must be offered in a safe environment, one free of hazards both inside and out. Refer to the guidebooks for specifics on keeping children safe from harm. In general, a safe center is one that is organized with the children’s care and development in mind. It has spaces both indoors and out where children can move and play away from potentially dangerous or hazardous substances.

​The more carefully you plan the environment, the fewer times adults will have to intervene in the children’s self-initiated activity. ​

Points to remember when designing curriculum and environments in your center or home:

Providers need to plan for individual differences when scheduling activities for groups of children.

Each child is on his/her own timetable for growth and development. Each reflects their own temperament, learning style, experiences, and family background.

What may be a risky temptation for one child may never even be noticed by another child.

Registrations that are submitted after enrollment hours will be processed the next morning. You will receive an email with your log-in information to access the course within an hour after we open the next business day.